Movie superstar Tom Cruise has become the highest earning actor in
Hollywood history after signing a deal that could earn him a staggering $360
million (GBP200 million) for his role in THE WAR OF THE WORLDS.

Rather than agree a set fee for his part in the STEVEN SPIELBERG-directed
epic, Cruise will earn 10 per cent of the film's box office takings plus a
share of profits from DVDs, video games and toys.

Experts predict the film - based on HG WELLS' classic novel about a
Martian attack - could make $1.8 billion (GBP1 billion) at the cinema alone, of
which Cruise's share would be an incredible $180 million (GBP100 million).

And, if he stars in the two planned sequels, Cruise's earnings will double
at least.

A Hollywood source says, "No expense will be spared. Spielberg wants to
make it the film of the decade - the one that everyone talks about and rushes
to see."